Real Life Real Faith Wisdom for Everyday Life May/June Issue | Page 28

ACR:  As an immigrant from
India, what has been one of
your greatest challenges in the
beginning that truly defined
your basic philosophy in life?
DA: I came to the United States
from India in August 1967 –
almost 50 years ago. At the
time, I was 21 years old. I was
truly impressed by the work
ethic of the Americans, but I
was also troubled by their
ignorance about India and the
Indian people. For example,
someone once asked me, “Is it
true that people in India live on
trees?” Another time, a lady
commented, “Oh my God, you
are obviously growing even
though you don't eat meat”.
Clearly, these persons were
ignorant about the Indian
society in the twentieth
century. These experiences
challenged me to make a
conscious effort to interact with
others and inform them about
me and my origins. At the
same time, it challenged me to
learn about the American
people, their values and work
ethic.
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